When you’re looking at silver dinnerware or gift items, you’ll usually find two options: pure silver plate and silver-plated. At first, they can look almost the same. Both shine. Both feel special. But if you dig deeper, the difference is huge. One is a lasting treasure. The other is a short-term sparkle. Let’s keep it simple and talk about why pure silver matters more. Shopping from an online silver store can feel tricky because pictures don’t tell the whole story. Here’s how to shop smart: • Always check for a hallmark. If the product doesn’t mention BIS or another official hallmark, skip it. • Compare prices carefully. Pure silver will always cost more than silver-plated. If the price feels too good to be true, it probably is. • Look for certificates. Many trusted online silver stores provide a certificate of authenticity. This adds another layer of trust. • Read what others say. Reviews and discussions on platforms like Quora and Reddit can give you real feedback from other buyers.